Abstract Detail

Bioluminescence is common in deep-sea organisms but rare on land. Fungi are one of the few organisms on land that are bioluminescent. The ultimate cause of bioluminescence in fungi is not fully understood. I tested two hypotheses that might explain bioluminescence in fungi: 1) attraction of spore dispersers and 2) attraction of predatory insects as a defense against fungivorous insects. I collected insects from glowing and non-glowing fruiting bodies of Mycena chlorophos, Filoboletus manipularis, and an unidentified species. Preliminary results of insect abundance on M. chlorophos and F. manipularis showed insects favoring glowing fruiting bodies. Insect abundance on the unidentified species suggests strong support for the attraction of insects as well (N = 62, F = 12.38, P = 0.002). In addition, I observed stem, cap, and gills of F. manipularis glowing at different times. This suggests bioluminescence is related to spore maturation of the fruiting body.